Burgers & Beers

Looking for the most sought after chips in town? Scoop a seat at Christchurch’s most popular burger bar, Burgers & Beers, where you will be well looked after by the run-off-their-feet (but cheery) staff. "Bloody good" burgers guaranteed!

• Web:

  www.burgersandbeersinc.co.nz

• E-mail:

  burgersandbeersinc@xtra.co.nz

• Address:

  The Colombo, 355 Colombo Street, Sydenham, Christchurch

• Phone:

  +64 3 366 3339

• Opening hours:

  Daily 11am–late

• More info:

  Burgers & Beers has a second location in Redwood at 478 Cranford Street.

Casa Publica

Casa Publica offers elevated South American dishes and over 160 rum varieties. Enjoy live music, fresh tableside guacamole, and a classy tavern setting that pays homage to prohibition-era rum mastery.

• Web:

  casapublica.co.nz

• Address:

  New Regent Street Precinct, 180 Armagh Street, Christchurch Central City

• Phone:

  +64 3 366 1389

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Thu noon–10:30pm, Fri & Sat noon–midnight

Costas Taverna

For four generations, the Lakakis family have had the passion for cooking unforgettable food. At Costas Taverna you can order their traditional Greek dishes made to perfection, prepared only with the freshest local and imported ingredients. Don't forget to pair the delicacies with one (or more) of their many Ouzos.

• Web:

  costastaverna.co.nz

• E-mail:

  cranford@costastaverna.co.nz

• Address:

  3/478 Cranford Street, Redwood, Christchurch

• Phone:

  +64 3 352 3232

• Opening hours:

  Daily 5pm–10pm

Curators House Restaurant

This converted historic house in the Botanic Gardens serves authentic Spanish Cuisine and boasts the most picturesque outdoor dining area in the city. An elegant restaurant serving dishes such as Spanish paella and tapas including lamb and fish dishes.

• Web:

  www.curatorshouse.co.nz

• E-mail:

  info@curatorshouse.co.nz

• Address:

  7 Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central City

• Phone:

  +64 3 379 2252

Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar

Fiddlesticks is a stylish and relaxed bar and restaurant. Take to the sheltered courtyard on a sunny day or warm up in front of a roaring outdoor fire. Fiddlesticks serve sensational, in-season local fare for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner.

• Web:

  fiddlesticksbar.co.nz

• E-mail:

  info@fiddlesticksbar.co.nz

• Address:

  Corner Worcester Boulevard & Montreal Street, Christchurch Central City

• Phone:

  +64 3 365 0533

• Opening hours:

  Daily 9am–late

King of Snake

Imagine a space bathed in sensual, dark red tones — a space that serves up a tantalising fusion of Asian and New Zealand cuisine. That's this hidden gem for you. The ambiance is chic, yet relaxed, and the entire restaurant resonates with thoughtful design. There's even a beautiful outdoor balcony overlooking the Avon river. It's a bustling place, but worry not — the service is always swift and friendly. When you visit, don't miss out on the deep-fried ice cream!

• Web:

  www.kingofsnake.co.nz

• E-mail:

  info@kingofsnake.co.nz

• Address:

  79 Cashel Street, Christchurch

• Phone:

  +64 3 365 7363

• Opening hours:

  Daily noon–late

Aikmans Bar & Eatery

One of the hottest spots in Christchurch, Aikman’s is a local favourite and is the ideal venue for a relaxed catch up with friends at the bar. Seamless indoor outoor flow makes this a great year round venue, with cosy outdoor fire and courtyard seating to complement the plush interiors.

• Web:

  aikmans.nz

• E-mail:

  aikmans@jdvgroup.co.nz

• Address:

  Merivale Mall, 154 Aikmans Road, Merivale, Christchurch

• Phone:

  +46 3 961 6545

• Opening hours:

  Daily 10am–late

Bailies Bar

Bailies isn't just a bar — it's a lively meeting place serving up tasty fare. Whether you're catching up with friends, kicking off a day or evening out, or savouring a leisurely meal, Bailies hits the mark. Expect a wide array of top-brand ales and a curated selection of wines to complement your food. This easygoing watering hole exudes a relaxed vibe, offering elevated pub grub and a brunch menu.

• Web:

  bailiesbar.co.nz

• Address:

  1066 Colombo Street, St Albans, Christchurch

• Phone:

  +46 3 366 5159

• Opening hours:

  Daily 11am–late

Carlton Bar & Steakhouse

As one of Christchurch's most beloved bars, Carlton never fails to deliver on great food, top-notch entertainment and live music. Steeped in a rich history that stretches back 160 years, today's Carlton offers a taste of Canterbury's past. It's a tribute to the early farmers, stockmen and colourful characters who pioneered the Christchurch and Canterbury region. This eclectic, modern outpost dishes up more than just drinks — expect a meat-lover's paradise, from premium steaks to a fine selection of charcuterie and wings.

• Web:

  carltonbar.co.nz

• E-mail:

  foodandbeverage@carltonbar.co.nz

• Address:

  1 Papanui Road, Merivale, Christchurch

• Phone:

  +64 3 355 9543

Christchurch Casino

36 game tables, 500 slot machines, beautiful lounge areas and friendly, service minded staff, these are just a few of the things you can look forward to when visiting the Christchurch Casino. When you get tired of playing games, you can sit down and have a fancy cocktail at the Diamond Bar, under the glow of 3,500 overhead shimmering crystals. When hunger and the need for sport strike, head upstairs to the Monza Sports bar! Filled with dark wood, leather booths, giant flat screens including a 140+” LCD Wall, enormous 1/2 metre pizzas, tasty BBQ ribs and a full bar, it's no surprise that this is Christchurch’s hottest sports venue!

• Web:

  christchurchcasino.co.nz

• Address:

  30 Victoria Street, Christchurch Central City

• Phone:

  +64 3 365 9999

Cocopelli

One of the many bars that make up The Palms nightlife is Cocopelli. Try one of their renowned cocktails such as the Mango Daiquiri and just hang around to enjoy a good night. Also known for their generously topped gourmet pizzas, perfect if you are feeling hungry.

• Web:

  www.cocopelli.co.nz

• Address:

  The Palms Shopping Centre, Corner Marshland & New Brighton Road, Shirley, Christchurch

• Phone:

  +46 3 386 2220

• Opening hours:

  Daily 11am–late

Darkroom Bar

Christchurch’s cool crowd is flocking to the Darkroom. Its incognito location makes you feel like you’re part of a secret society and, as the name suggests, the place is a little on the dark side. The owners have made good use of the small space with free gigs happening every weekend. There is a great selection of New Zealand craft beers, wine and cocktails.

• Web:

  darkroom.bar

• E-mail:

  info@darkroom.bar

• Address:

  336 St Asaph Street, Christchurch Central City

• Phone:

  +64 27 726 8436

• Opening hours:

  Thu–Sat 7pm–late

Addington Coffee Co-op

What used to be an old mechanics workshop was transformed into the much loved Addington Coffee Co-op in 2008. A big point of difference is their commitment to using Fair Trade products. While you are having your coffee, why not wash some clothes, they offer coin-operated laundromat.

• Web:

  www.addingtoncoffee.org.nz

• E-mail:

  info@addingtonstore.org.nz

• Address:

  297 Lincoln Road, Addington, Christchurch

• Phone:

  +64 3 943 1662

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri 7:30am–4pm, Sat & Sun 9am–4pm

Aikman's

If you're looking for a place where afternoon coffees turn into evening cocktails then Aikman's is a great place to try. Seamless indoor outoor flow makes this a great year round venue, with cosy outdoor fire and courtyard seating to complement the plush interiors.

• Web:

  aikmans.nz

• E-mail:

  aikmans@jdvgroup.co.nz

• Address:

  Merivale Mall, 154 Aikmans Road, Merivale, Christchurch

• Phone:

  +64 3 961 6545

• Opening hours:

  Daily 10am–late

Black Betty Cafe

Black Betty is a busy café where students hang during the week and young families spend their time during the weekend. It has a combination of great coffee, interesting decor and a warm atmosphere. If you like strong coffee, they serve some of the city's finest espresso.

• Web:

  www.switchespresso.co.nz/pages/black-betty

• Address:

  165 Madras Street, Christchurch Central City

• Phone:

  +64 3 365 8522

Boat Shed Café

Picturesque riverside café serving breakfast, lunch, BBQ and picnic menus. Seating can be found both indoors and outdoors and you can sit back and relax while watching the beautiful banks of the Avon river. When in the area, why not rent a kayak or row boat after regaining some energy after the coffee break.

• Web:

  www.boatsheds.co.nz

• E-mail:

  kitchen@boatsheds.co.nz

• Address:

  2 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch Central City

• Phone:

  +64 3 366 6768

• Opening hours:

  Summer: Mon–Fri 6:30am–5:30pm, Sat & Sun: 7am–5:30pm. Winter: Mon–Fri 6:30am–5pm, Sat & Sun 7am–5pm

C1 Espresso

Finding its home in Christchurch's old post office building from the 1930s, this cafe has become a Christchurch institution. If hungry, try one of the mouth-watering dishes such as pan fried prawns or chicken Caesar salad. Portion size permitting, your order will be delivered in a playfully retro manner — via pneumatic tubes! A place full of character, excellent coffee, friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere.

• Web:

  coffee.c1espresso.co.nz

• E-mail:

  hello@c1espresso.co.nz

• Address:

  Old Post & Telegraph, 185 High Street, Christchurch Central City

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri 7am–9pm, Sat & Sun 7am–5pm

Crafted Coffee Company

Founded by Carl Sara, four times New Zealand barista winner, Crafted Coffee Company really knows how to make quality coffee. They source their tasty coffee from around the world, from farmers, small Co-ops and friends. If hungry, they have a breakfast and lunch menu too.

• Web:

  www.craftedcoffeecompany.co.nz

• E-mail:

  carl@craftedcoffeecompany.co.nz

• Address:

  121 Blenheim Road, Christchurch

• Phone:

  +64 3 348 4833